Best AV processors for under $10K

My Oppo 105 is set to DSD for sacd output (stereo default) as the 8801 can accept a native DSD bitstream over hdmi from there I can leave it un touched or convert it to PCM and apply bass mgnt and Audyssey. I also use the Balanced outs from the Oppo 105 to the 8801's balanced inputs and I use the 8801's Pure Direct mode ( its an assignable to what ever mode you choose I use CD))for 2/ch DSD no need to go back into the menu and switch because I use hdmi for multi/ch and xlr for the analog outs on the 105 for 2/ch, so once setup its done!
You can also toggle between the stereo and 5.1 tracks on an sacd by using the Audio button on the Oppo 105, of course if I want the Oppo 105 to do the conversion I set it to LPCM instead of bitstream for hdmi out and the same applies in the 8801 you can still add Audyssey!

Since you like the SP2, how about Bryston's SP3?

NAD M15
Mcintosh 121

Those will hit the spot.

Thinking that the development of analog stereo preamps is much more stable than that of processors, I opted for Oppo 105 processing with pass-through to a Parasound JC-2 preamp. Stereo from the Oppo, a Sony 5400ES, and JC-3 phono stage go through the JC-2. Surround from the Oppo goes directly to the amps, SW to Velodyne SMS-1 that provides LF acoustic room correction for a pair of HGS-15s. The Oppo is set to output LPCM from SACDS; the Sony can output DSD.

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